Florida teaching credentials with a less-than-perfect past
Florida teaching credentials with a less-than-perfect past If you are considering becoming a teacher in Florida, certain aspects of your past might cause you some concern. After all, the application process is relatively rigorous and would involve a review of your...
How Office of Professional Practices Services investigations work
When you make your living working as a Florida educator and someone accuses you of misconduct, you may find yourself the subject of an Office of Professional Practices Services investigation. The main point of the investigation is to determine if you broke a law or...
What might lead to a loss of a teaching license?
Many teachers indicate that the profession is more than a job: It is a calling. A teacher faced with suspension and subsequent loss of a license may not know what to do next. Understanding a few reasons this may occur may help prevent and defend against it. What is...
Is your child’s teacher refusing to follow an IEP?
Individualized Education Programs - or IEPs for short - allow for students with potential learning disabilities and other issues to get the assistance they need to make the most of their time in school. These plans prove crucially important in many ways, so it is a...
Is academic dismissal the same as expulsion?
Academic dismissal and expulsion are two of the most serious consequences a student can face while in college or university. Both have the potential to affect a student's academic career, future job opportunities and more. While some might consider academic dismissal...
What Florida blended families should know about estate planning
If it's your second marriage and you're thinking about your estate plan in Florida, there are some things for you to keep in mind that other families don't necessarily have to think about. If you're not proactive, you might end up with an ex who ends up inheriting...
What are your rights as a teacher if you are under investigation?
Receiving word that you are the subject of an investigation can cause shock and uncertainty. You might wonder what this reality means for your career and your reputation. If administrators place you on leave, remember that you still have rights. Knowing your rights...
Defending your license against a complaint
Florida takes complaints against teachers seriously. According to Florida Statutes Section 1012.796, the Department of Education must investigate any allegation that might lead to license revocation or suspension. A complaint against you puts your professional and...
Failing to report child abuse and your ability to teach
As a teacher, you likely encounter a wide variety of stressors on a daily basis. Whether you struggle with anxiety as a result of managing a chaotic classroom or you face pressure related to student performance, teaching can prove challenging at times. Additionally,...
What to know about federal education laws
A child who misbehaves in a Florida classroom or on school grounds may be subject to discipline. However, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) may offer protections to those who have emotional, physical or other disabilities that may cause them to do...